If you have ADHD, the classic “I forgot” or “I’ll do it later” scenarios can become all too familiar. This isn’t about being lazy or disorganized – it’s about having a unique brain that thrives on the right kind of structure and support.

That’s where an ADHD planner app can change the game.

It’s not just a digital calendar; it’s your personal ADHD sidekick, designed to help you tackle the world while keeping your ADHD quirks in mind.

So, let’s explore the features and apps that can make a real difference in your daily life, and help you become the focused, organized, and productive individual you’ve always known you could be.

I. Key Features to Look For in ADHD Apps

The best planner apps for ADHD should be the ones that actually help you manage time, tasks, and what’s most important. Here’s a breakdown of the key features to look for:

1️⃣ADHD-friendly Interface

Adults with ADHD might have trouble focusing their attention, so the planner app should not add to their stress. Opt for one that’s easy to use and navigate with an intuitive design.

Tip: Color-coding, icons, and stickers can be helpful.

2️⃣Cross-Platform Compatibility

It’s useful if the ADHD apps can work on different platforms – like iOS, Android, and mobile devices. This keeps people with ADHD from forgetting important tasks and important deadlines, no matter where they are.

3️⃣To-do Lists, Tasks, and Subtasks

These ADHD apps should allow you to create to-do lists and break them down into smaller, manageable chunks. This helps avoid feeling overwhelmed by the big picture, making it easier to stay focused on one step at a time.

It’s beneficial if you can set due dates and prioritize tasks.

4️⃣Customization Options

Top ADHD apps often provide customization in terms of task categories, labels, and task sorting as this allows users to organize things in a way that works best for them.

Before you commit to one, try a few ADHD planner apps to see which one vibes with your style. Everyone’s different, so don’t be afraid to experiment to find your perfect match!

II. Top 12 ADHD Planner App Options

1. Upbase

Android, iOS, and Web; Free with an available Premium version upgrade.

ADHD often feels like trying to juggle a hundred thoughts, tasks, and deadlines in your head. Exhausting, right? That’s where Upbase comes in – a single app that can remember everything for you and be whatever you need it to be.

Need a visual scheduler and planner? Sure!

A project manager and task organizer? No problem!

Even a quick note-taker? Easy-peasy!

It’s like you have a reliable personal assistant who’s always there to give you the right tool you need.

The best part? It doesn’t overwhelm users, whether beginners or the experienced. Oppositely, Upbase has a user-friendly interface. Here are some of the many user reviews:

So, who should choose Upbase?

If your final destination is not just a planner app but an all-in-one solution that’s both powerful and ADHD-friendly to help you stay organized, then Upbase is definitely worth a try.

A. Key Features

• Unlimited users and tasks
• For planning and scheduling: “Schedule” page, with 4 settings:
  • Daily planner
  • Weekly planner
  • Weekly calendar
  • Monthly calendar
• Two-way sync with Google Calendar.
• For task management: Notes, start and due dates, durations, priorities, recurring tasks, and tags; assignees, watchers, attachments, and comments.
• For project management: Lists (private or shared), each offering 7 customizable tools:
  • Tasks – for task organization.
  • Files – for managing uploaded files and embedded Google Drive folders.
  • Docs – for managing native documents and embedded Google Docs.
  • Links – for organizing and collaborating on URLs
  • Messages – for discussing topics with others
  • Chat – for real-time messaging
  • Calendar – for scheduling tasks in a list
• Structure: Folders, lists, sections, tasks, and subtasks (all are customizable)
• For boosting productivity: Notepad, Pomodoro timers, ambient sounds, and a daily journal tool.
• Also-cool features: “My Tasks” page, bookmarks, custom filters, keyboard shortcuts, “Pin to Tray”, and Light/Dark mode.

We’ve just highlighted the power of Upbase. Now, let’s see how these features can help you.

B. How Upbase can help?

i) “Schedule” page

It’s where you’ll be driven to once done the initial signup. Or, you can navigate to this page from the left-side menu.

As mentioned, “Schedule” provides 4 settings. Switching between them is as simple as a few clicks.

You can start creating tasks right from this page.

• Hit “Add task” or any day/time on the calendar.
• Type the task name. Enter.
• Click on the task to add its details, if wanted.

To schedule tasks, simply drag and drop them onto the calendar and adjust their durations there.

Optional: If you’re currently a Google Calendar user, sync it to your Upbase Schedule. This way, you can schedule tasks and events in the same place.

Notably, Upbase preserves the original colors of synced events and displays them on its Schedule—something that other planner apps don’t.

Now, we all know that having ADHD and not completing tasks often go hand in hand. If you need some help to improve focus time, conquer procrastination, and get things done, go to the “Daily Planner”.

Here, you get many productivity features like Pomo timers, ambient sounds, Notepad, etc., plus a holistic view of your recent items.

Rest assured, you can hide any unused tool.

ii) Lists

Upbase utilizes “lists” to manage your projects.

You can create different lists for individual projects, then add specific team members or guests into each, or keep it private depending on your needs.

Each list is like a neat drawer with seven customizable dividers, where you can organize different types of information related to the project easily.

iii) Other ADHD-friendly features

Aimed to maximize brain focus, Upbase also allows ADHDers to:

• Filter tasks by a certain attribute, like assignee, tag, due date, or section.
• Create custom filters to your unique needs, and save them on the left menu for quick access.
• Pin any important links as bookmarks on the left menu.
• Add stickers and color-coded tags to tasks.

Or, if you’re getting involved in many collaborative projects at a time, make use of the My Tasks page, where you can overview your assigned tasks or tasks you create across all lists.

C. Pricing

2. Sunsama

Web, Android, iOS, MacOS, Windows, Linux | 14-day free trials.

A. Key Features

• To-do lists and subtasks
• Contexts and channels
• Color-coding
• Time blocking
• Recurring tasks
• Daily planning flow
• Cross-platform sync

B. How Sunsama can help?

Sunsama is a helpful task management app for individuals who have trouble staying focused. What sets it apart from other apps is the ‘Daily Planning Ritual,’ a brief four-step process that automatically appears once a day:

1) Reflect on yesterday’s progress.

2) Set up today’s to-do list.

3) Plan tasks for tomorrow and the next week.

4) Estimate today’s tasks by dragging each task onto the calendar and adjusting its duration there.

This mindful ritual is a game-changer for anyone who usually dives into a massive to-do list without setting realistic goals.

Read Full Review: Sunsama Review.

Limitations

• No free version
• High pricing, compared to many apps
• Require integration with Outlook or Google Calendar for time-blocking function

C. Pricing

3. Fantastical

Web and all Apple devices (iOS, macOS, iPad, and Apple Watch); Free with premium upgrades.

A. Key Features

• Multiple to-do lists and tasks
• Smart calendar
• Natural language input
• Multiple calendar views (day, week, month, quarter, and year)
• Call and meeting scheduling
• 14 widgets

B. How Fantastical can help?

Fantastical is the perfect app for managing anything related to dates (visits, trips, meetings, appointments) and involving other people. It offers multiple calendar views by day, week, month, quarter, and year to keep you on top of things.

We know that ADHD brains are like race cars, always quickly shifting to other things. Fantastical gets that and makes adding tasks to your device super quick.

It replaces the need for clicking on dates and times in the event planner with an input bar that understands phrases like ‘dinner with Chris tonight at 7’ and immediately places them on your calendar.

This streamlines time management, matching the speed of an ADHD brain, and helping you stick to your commitments.

Limitations

• No apps for Android or Windows
• High learning curve
• Very limited free version

C. Pricing

4. Trello

iOS, Android, web, macOS, and Windows; Free with paid upgrades.

A. Key Features

• Project boards, lists, and cards
• Due dates
• Power-Ups
• Automation
• Custom fields

B. How Trello can help?

Trello is renowned as a visual project management tool.

It employs the Kanban method, offering a clear structure with three levels: boards, lists, and cards, to assist you in managing projects.

For instance, you can create a board with lists like ‘To-Do,’ ‘Doing,’ and ‘Done,’ and then add tasks to the ‘To-Do’ list. As your project moves along, just shift tasks from ‘To-Do’ to ‘Doing,’ and finally to ‘Done.’

Read Full Review: Trello Review.

This approach is highly visual, making it easy to track progress and ideal for individuals with ADHD.

One significant advantage of Trello is its ability to automate workflows using rules and commands.

This function might seem a bit tricky initially, but once you’re proficient, it becomes a real time-saver. It’s like having a personal assistant to handle all those tedious, repetitive tasks, giving you more focus time for the real work.

And if the app’s native feature set doesn’t quite meet your specific needs, here’s a helpful tip: explore its Power-Ups inventory, locate the features you require, and add them to your board.

You can load up on as many as you want, and the best part is, they won’t cost you a dime.

Limitations

• Basic collaboration features
• No built-in calendar on the basic version
• Become laggy when you add many Power-Ups.

C. Pricing

5. Todoist

Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and wearOS; Free with upgrades for advanced features.

A. Key Features

• Projects, sub-projects, to-do lists, and subtasks
• Location-based reminders
• Filters & Labels
• Natural language input
• Multiple views: Inbox, Today, and Upcoming

B. How Todoist can help?

Todoist is considered one of the best productivity apps for individuals with ADHD.

Its standout feature is Natural Language Input, which enables you to use everyday language to create to-do lists, add due dates, and assign tasks to other users. You simply type something like, ‘Go for a daily run every weekday at 5 PM,’ and the app will understand and set the task to recur at 5 PM every weekday.

Read Full Review: Todoist Review.

Additionally, you can set reminders for upcoming tasks, ensuring that you won’t forget anything.

Limitations

• No monthly calendar view
• No start dates
• Lacking advanced features for collaboration

C. Pricing

6. TickTick

Windows, Android devices, iOS devices, Mac, Apple Watch, and Linux; Free or an annual subscription.

A. Key Features

• Folders, lists, tasks, and subtasks
• Multiple views: Inbox, Today, and Next 7 Days
• Various calendar views
• Tags and filters
• Pomo timers and white noises
• Habit tracker

B. How TickTick can help?

I know, TickTick may seem quite similar to Todoist. Both apps have minimalist interfaces, offer Inbox and Today views, and support natural language input. However, TickTick offers three unique features that set it apart and can be especially beneficial for users with ADHD:

i) Calendar: TickTick provides multiple calendar views, allowing you to easily track upcoming tasks, events, and appointments in various ways.

ii) Habit Gallery: Here, you can access over 60 habit tracker templates, making it easy to build healthy habits and take care of your mental health.

iii) Pomo Timers with White Noises: This powerful combination helps you reduce distractions and stay focused.

Limitations

• Very limited free features
• Not support collaboration on the free plan
• Limited automation

C. Pricing

TickTick offers a free version and an annual subscription of $35.99.

7. Things 3

Mac, iPhone, and iPad; One-time purchases with separate price tiers for different Apple devices.

A. Key Features

• Multiple views: Today & This Evening, Upcoming, Anytime, and Someday
• Projects, areas, tasks, and checklists
• Start and due dates
• Tags
• Reminders
• Beautiful animations

B. How Things 3 can help?

Things 3 stands out for two key reasons: 1) its structured and intuitive interface and 2) its dedicated feature set that truly helps you complete tasks.

Its structured and intuitive interface that clicks with the way your brain works, making it a breeze to stay organized.

For instance, you can break down projects into headings and create task lists beneath them. You can even break down large tasks into checklists, making them more manageable.

The app also allows you to add start and due dates, durations, and reminders to tasks, ensuring you never miss important tasks.

As Things 3 is exclusive to the Apple ecosystem, it’s fully integrated with Apple services such as Apple Reminders, Calendar, and Siri.

What’s even better? It’s thoughtfully customized to provide a native feel on each Apple device, enhancing the user experience.

Limitations

• Not for Windows or Android users
• No free plans or free trials
• No web version

C. Pricing

Mac: $49.99

iPhone: $9.99

iPad: $19.99

8. Remember The Milk

Web, Mac, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, and BlackBerry; Free with a yearly subscription.

A. Key Features

• Deadlines, priorities, and tags
• Smart lists
• Reminders and notifications
• Offline access

B. How Remember The Milk can help?

Remember The Milk is easily available for download from various app stores, including the Apple Store, Google Play, or BlackBerry World. It’s accessible on a variety of devices, whether it’s your laptop, mobile device, or tablet.

What’s even better is that it’s functional with or without an internet connection.

This versatility is a great advantage, particularly for users with ADHD. Given our fast-paced minds that tend to race from one thing to another, this broad compatibility allows for the swift capturing of tasks before we forget them.

RTM also stands out for its Smart Lists, which are dynamic lists that help with brain focus: you can filter specific tasks based on criteria you set, such as priority, due dates, or tags.

Limitations

• Offer limited free lists and subtasks
• Lacking advanced features for collaboration
• Outdated design, compared to other apps

C. Pricing

Remember The Milk offers a free plan and a yearly subscription that costs $39.99 per year.

9. Tiimo

Android, iOS, iPadOS, and WatchOS; Free with in-app purchases.

A. Key Features

• Visual timelines
• Smart AI checklists
• ‘Start’ and ‘Pause’ tasks
• Reminders
• Preset routine templates

B. How Tiimo can help?

Tiimo is a daily planner app specifically designed to support individuals with ADHD or Autism. It’s all about making life easier.

You’ll love its visual schedules with fun color-coding that helps simplify daily planning, makes distinguishing different types of tasks easy, and keeps you stay on track.

And here’s the cool part – Tiimo has this cool feature called Smart AI Checklists that can break down big tasks for you with just a click. No more feeling overwhelmed!

Plus, there are task reminders and timers with a ‘Start’ and ‘Pause’ button, so you get greater control over your daily routine.

Limitations

• No web version
• Limited free checklists
• Unable to share to-do items with others in the free plan

C. Pricing

10. PiCal

iOS; Free with in-app purchases.

A. Key Features

• 24-hour clock dial interface
• Color-coded events
• Repeating events
• Multiple alarms
• Visualize time zones

B. How PiCal can help?

PiCal uses a 24-hour clock dial to show off your events, providing a visual representation of the entire day. With this unique approach, you’ll better stay aware of upcoming deadlines, which is valuable for managing time effectively, especially if you’ve got a scatterbrain.

You can also color-code your events, set reminders, and attach checklists to each event, making it easier to remember stuff.

If you frequently work with international contacts or frequently travel, PiCal offers multiple time zone settings. No more calling your buddy at 3 AM their time. It’s a lifesaver!

Limitations

• Only available on iOS devices
• Lack of task management
• Limited collaboration capability

C. Pricing

11. Lunatask

macOS, Windows, and Linux; free with paid upgrades.

A. Key Features

• Smart lists
• Task timers
• Time blocking
• Habit and Mood Tracking
• Journaling
• Notes and notebooks

B. How Lunatask can help?

Lunatask is all about boosting personal productivity.

It offers an array of features for managing tasks, notes, and calendars. Additionally, it supports well-known productivity techniques like the Must/Should/Want Method, Eisenhower Matrix, and Time Blocking.

But what truly distinguishes Lunatask is its distinctive toolkit for journaling, mood tracking, and habit monitoring. These features are particularly valuable for promoting mental well-being.

Limitations

• No web version
• Not available on the App Store or Google Play
• Not support collaboration

C. Pricing

12. My Daily Planner

Android and iOS; Free with in-app purchases.

A. Key Features

• Folders, task lists, and subtasks
• Daily planners
• Weekly and monthly calendars
• Reminders
• Offline access

B. How My Daily Planner can help?

The name says it all. My Daily Planner is specifically designed to simplify your daily planning process.

The app makes it easy to start creating to-do lists for the day, setting priorities, adding deadlines, and creating reminders.

Once you’ve composed your to-dos, you can categorize them into folders or break down those large tasks into subtasks. You can then view them in a tree-like structure or within the main task view, according to your preference.

Planning ahead for the week or month? Easy-peasy. My Daily Planner offers calendars with two modes: Week or Month.

Limitations

• Contain in-app purchases per item
• Limited platforms

C. Pricing

Free to download, with in-app purchases ($0.99 – $14.99 per item)

III. It’s Time To Find Your Best ADHD Planner App

ADHD apps are like lifelines for people with ADHD symptoms. They help you stay organized, keep track of due dates, improve executive function, and get things done. But first, you need to find the right one to suit your ADHD needs.

Try out a couple of contenders. It might take a little time, but once you discover the perfect one, trust us, it’s a game-changer.

Feeling a bit lost about where to start? Our top pick is Upbase. It’s free, super newbie-friendly, and packed with cool ADHD-friendly features. Go ahead, grab yourself an Upbase account today, and watch the magic unfold.

IV. Practical Tips for Making The Most With an ADHD App

1. Set a daily routine

Routines help you reduce those frustrating “I forgot” moments. Try to set a specific time each day to check and update your app.

2. Use Visual Aids

Scientific evidence shows that visual information is more memorable than plain text.

So, next time you categorize tasks, try incorporating visual aids like icons, colors, and symbols. This jazzes up your to-do list, making it more engaging and user-friendly.

3. Break Tasks Down

Large tasks might overwhelm you, leading to procrastination.

A practical tip is to slice them into smaller, more manageable subtasks. This makes them feel more achievable.

4. Prioritize Tasks

If you’re tired of never-ending task lists and don’t know where to start, try prioritizing tasks by importance and urgency.

The rules are simple:

• Tackle urgent, high-priority items first
• Schedule high-priority but non-urgent tasks
• Delegate urgent but low-priority items
• Remove the rest

5. Time Blocking

It’s easier to follow a schedule than to drift through the day with no plan, especially for people with ADHD. That’s why I suggest the time-blocking technique. It involves allocating specific time slots during the day for tasks and activities.

This way, you gain better control over how you spend your time, which, in turn, improves time management and reduces procrastination.

V. FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties in maintaining attention, controlling impulses, and regulating excessive hyperactivity.

2. What is the planner app for people with ADHD?

It’s a digital tool designed to help adults with ADHD effectively manage their time, tasks, and priorities.

Planner apps for ADHD often incorporate features like reminders, task categorization, and time-blocking to assist with organization and focus.

3. Does having a planner help with ADHD?

Yes, having a planner can significantly help with ADHD by providing structure, reminders, and visual organization to manage your time and organize tasks effectively.

4. Are digital planners good for ADHD?

Yes, digital planners can be beneficial for adults with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). The reason is they offer features like reminders, organization, and customization that can help improve time management and task management.

However, the effectiveness of a digital planner may vary from person to person, so it’s important to find the right fit for individual needs and preferences.

5. What does science say about ADHD apps?

A study published in the Journal of Attention Disorders has shown that certain apps are beneficial for students with ADHD. Specifically, they help with brain focus, symptom management, and enhancing organization skills.